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Two healthcare giants that serve residents in the Hudson Valley and Connecticut are about to join forces to create a health system that will form a huge system offering services from the Hudson River to Long Island.

The merger of the Western Connecticut Health Network, based in Danbury, and Health Quest Systems, based in Lagrangeville in Dutchess County, will create a seven-hospital network serving 1.5 million people across the two states and include seven hospitals, with combined project revenues of $2.4 billion.

“By joining together, we will expand our reach and enhance our position in today’s consumer-driven environment, helping people optimize their health, prevent disease and manage chronic conditions,” said Robert Friedberg, president, and CEO of Health Quest. “The combined health system will help bring new programs and services to our communities.”

Before the merger can take place, it will require approval by the states of Connecticut and New York and the Federal Trade Commission. After receiving approval, the new organization is expected to launch sometime in 2019. Until then, both will continue to operate as independent entities.

“Sharing similar missions and values, our organizations are uniting to create an expanded, patient-centered health system that accelerates the change from sick-care to wellness,” said Dr. John Murphy, president, and CEO of Western Connecticut Health Network. “We will remain cornerstones in our communities dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care and will have the depth, breadth, and talent to advance the health and well-being of those we serve.”

Once approved, Murphy will serve as CEO of the newly combined organization and Friedberg will serve as president.

Following the announcement, Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro said county residents look forward to the enhanced service resulting from the new healthcare system.

“Health Quest has long been a leader in healthcare, playing a major role in making Dutchess County the home to world-class medical facilities," Molinaro said. "The new healthcare system announced today will provide our residents with better access to innovative healthcare options and the high-quality care with which they’ve become accustomed, all within close proximity."